Disease-Modifying Therapy in Multiple Sclerosis: Strategies for Optimizing Management

The document from 2002 provides a comprehensive overview of strategies for managing side effects and optimizing treatment compliance for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients using disease-modifying agents (DMAs) such as interferon beta-1a, interferon beta-1b, and glatiramer acetate. The authors, with experience from approximately 5000 MS patients, emphasize the importance of patient education, managing expectations, and regular compliance assessments. They offer practical advice for managing skin reactions, flu-like symptoms, spasticity, bladder dysfunction, and other side effects like MS-related fatigue, heat sensitivity, and IFN-induced headaches. The document also discusses the management of mood disorders, menstrual abnormalities, pregnancy considerations, and rare adverse events like autoimmune disorders and capillary leak syndrome. It concludes that a comprehensive approach to patient education and side effect management is essential to improve patient adherence and quality of life.